How much air goes in a Blakemore tube?

When the gastric balloon is correctly positioned in the stomach, inflate it with the full recommended volume of air (usually 450-500 mL), then clamp the air inlet and pressure-monitoring outlet. Check proper placement by irrigating the gastric aspiration port with water while auscultating over the stomach.

How do you inflate a Blakemore?

Pull the Salem Sump back until the esoph mark is at the 50 cm point of the Blakemore. Attach a manometer to the second three-way stopcock on the esophageal port of the Blakemore. Inflate to 30 mm Hg. If bleeding continues, inflate to 45 mm Hg.

What do you need to know about esophageal varices?

Esophageal Varices. Esophageal varices are enlarged or swollen veins on the lining of the esophagus. Varices can be life-threatening if they break open and bleed. Treatment is aimed at preventing liver damage, preventing varices from bleeding, and controlling bleeding if it occurs. Appointments & Locations.

How common are esophageal varices in cirrhosis?

Cirrhosis is the most common type of liver disease, and more than 90% of these patients will develop esophageal varices sometime in their lifetime; about 30% will bleed. In cirrhosis, large sections of scar tissue develop throughout the liver and cause blood flow to slow.

Can esophageal varices cause tarry stools?

Most people do not know they have esophageal varices until the varices start to bleed. When bleeding is sudden and severe, the person vomits large amounts of blood. When bleeding is less severe, the person may swallow the blood, which can cause black, tarry stools.

How is variceal ligation performed?

Variceal ligation: In this procedure, tiny elastic bands are wrapped around the varices to cut off blood flow through the varices. This can be performed on as many veins as necessary in one session. After the bleeding is controlled, patients may be given a drug to prevent bleeding from starting again.